What is a Fairy Tale?
A fairy tale is a fictional story that may feature folkloric characters such as fairies, goblins, elves, trolls, witches, giants, and talking animals and enchantments, often involving a far-fetched sequence of events. The term is also used to describe something blessed with unusual happiness, as in "fairy tale ending" (a happy ending) or "fairy tale romance," though not all fairy tales end happily. Fairy tales are a genre in literature. They have their roots in the oral tradition. Fairy tales with very similar plots, characters, and motifs are found spread across many different cultures. Fairy tales also tend to take on the color of their location, through the choice of motifs, the style in which they are told, and the depiction of character and local color.
Fairy Tales -- unbelievable stories featuring magic and the supernatural; a fanciful tale of legendary deeds and creatures, usually intended for children; a fictitious, highly fanciful story or explanation; often begin with such formulas as "Once upon a time. . ." and “In a certain country there lived. . . .” Popular examples recount the supernatural adventures and mishaps of youngest daughters, transformed princes and mermaids
A fairy tale is a story with magical elements. It's actually quite difficult to define this type of literature as many of the characteristics cross over into fables and folklore. But there are some common characteristics of fairy tales shared to a certain extent:
Most importantly, fairy tales do NOT have to include a fairy!
Common Elements of Fairy Tales
vs. Evil characters.
talking animals, witches or fairies.
happily ever after.”
Theme
A. Often universal in quality (That means all people are capable of relating to it, such as unfair treatment by a sibling.)
B. Generally obvious and straightforward
C. Usually deals with conflict or contrast, for example
Plot (the storyline or events)
A. Quick, concise introduction
B. Logical, fast-paced development of events
C. Logical, abrupt ending after the climax or resolution of the problem
D. Satisfying, definite conclusion (universal happy ending)
Characters
A. Stereotyped, one-dimensional
B. Can be animals or humans
C. Represent types; they are not developed as flesh-and-blood people.
Setting: "anytime, anyplace" stories, although in the past and often include a castle, the woods, and a small hut in the woods.
Style (word usage and structure of story)
A. Limited description and detail
B. Frequent use of rhyme and repetition
C. Events occur in patterns of 3, 7, 12, and 40 (This pattern also appears in Biblical stories and in Shakespeare.). The number 4
occurs in Asian Literature.
D. Reflects culture in which the story is found.
Other characteristics
A. Main character (protagonist) is given a nearly impossible task to complete.
B. Evil character must be overcome by the hero/heroine.
C. No magic ever ultimately succeeds for the mean or cowardly or cruel individual.
D. Dark spells can only be broken by love or self-sacrifice.
E. Grace and strength are bestowed upon those who strive and keep an honest, kindly heart.